Cade Cavalli: Nats' New Ace

0:00It's March 7th for the Washington Nationals. Let's get into it. Washington Nationals fans have a new ace in the making. Cade Cavali has stood out in spring training as the team's top pitcher. He's dominating outings like his four scoreless innings against the Astros with six strikeouts. His fastball is averaging 97 miles per hour and he's on track to start on opening day. He's made smart changes to his arsenal. Cavali added a sweeper, which he calls a turboslurve, to handle right-handed batters better. Last season they hit 381 against him, but left he struggled at 221. He threw the sweeper 41% of the time in his last start. Analysts are buzzing about his potential. Experts say his stuff is elite now, with a one-seam sink or two. He's bulked up 25 pounds and uses new tech-like spin-access balls. Many see him as the most talented arm in the rotation. An outshining departed pitchers like Mackenzie Gore. Cavali's path hasn't been easy. A tough Tommy John recovery sideline him through most of 2023 and 2024.

1:05He bounced back last year with over 122 innings across majors and minors. At six foot four and 225 pounds, he looks built for heavy workloads. This spring he's posted six innings pitched, one hit, zero earned runs, one walk and seven strikeouts. On a five-day schedule, he's primed for a breakout at 27. Nats fans are excited for what could be his biggest year yet. This DNN story comes to you, thanks to our sponsor. A pillow that plays your sound quietly, comfortably, effortlessly, built for nighttime listening, L.I. SoleyPillow.com